Library project to begin in May

Baker University's Collins Library soon will undergo a complete renovation which will transform the facility into state-of-the-art learning resource center.

"People who see the plans share a sense of excitement that Baker is doing something cutting edge," said Baker University President Dan Lambert. "We will serve as a model for how small colleges address challenges related to learning resources."

Currently in the fundraising phase, construction on the $6.3 million project will begin in 2001.

The library will be expanded on the north side to increase the overall size of the building. In addition, the main entrance of the building will face the interior of campus.

The most dramatic changes are planned for the building's interior. Individual and group study areas equipped with computer ports, as well as high-tech classrooms for use by all the academic departments will be located on the first floor. The study area on the floor will be more open and allow students a casual approach to their study time.

These changes to the study areas should make the library more student-friendly.

While construction is taking place, the library will have to relocate. The most likely option is to move most of the library functions to the gym in Mabee Memorial Hall.

"In order to improve the library, we'll have to put up with some inconvenience but it shouldn't be that bad," said sophomore Amanda Bevis, Bendena, Kan.